Prerequisites & Requirements

Schedule Overview

The Emergency Medical Services Certificate is a fulltime, three-term program that prepares you to work as an emergency medical technician (EMT) and gives you a strong start if you plan to move into other emergency service careers. Before beginning the main sequence, you must complete one term of prerequisites, usually 11–13 credits. Some prerequisites may be waived based on placement. This program uses a special admission process, but it is not competitive. The program entry process begins April 1 for fall enrollment, and students are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis once all requirements are met. 

Program Schedule 

Some EMS courses can be taken in any order, but others — especially anatomy and physiology — must be taken in sequence. The anatomy and physiology series is a three-term sequence that you can start in fall, winter or spring. Emergency Medical Technician I and II courses run in two term cohorts offered fall–winter and winter–spring. 

Clinical Experiences 

You also take part in supervised clinical and field experiences. These give you chances to observe and help with real emergency medical care. Clinical hours take place outside regular class times and may be scheduled on weekdays, evenings, or weekends. 

Because this is a fast-paced program designed to help you enter the workforce quickly, strong time management and flexibility are important. Working full-time while enrolled may be challenging based on your schedule and other commitments. 

Entry Requirements

Before you begin the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Certificate program at Rogue Community College, it helps to understand a few key requirements and steps. This program uses a non-competitive, first-come, first-served entry process. There is no separate program application. Instead, you secure your seat by completing required documentation and clearance steps.

Program entry opens April 1. Classes often fill several months in advance, so early preparation is strongly recommended. Advisors and Emergency Services staff are available to guide you through each step.

To Be Eligible You Must:

• Be at least 17 years old at the time of application.
• Possess a high school diploma, GED®, or equivalent (required for state and National Registry EMT exam eligibility).
• Become an RCC student and complete the RCC Placement Process.
• Submit required documents through QualifiedFirst. This includes AHA BLS CPR card and medical documentation for all required immunizations (per Oregon Administrative Rule 409-030-0100).
• Complete a 10-panel drug screen and state and federal background check through the RCC process (to be completed no earlier than three months prior to start of course).
• Meeting with an Emergency Services Advisor early can help you understand timelines, expectations and your next steps!

Request Advising

Required Materials 

Full details regarding specific materials will be provided after program entry requirements are met.

Requirements will include:

• Vaccination, drug screening and background check fees.
• Approved uniforms for class, clinical and field time.
• A reliable tablet computer or compact laptop.
• Textbooks: The list of required texts is updated frequently, and every effort is made to minimize the expense for students.
• Certification application and testing fees.
  See Estimated Program Costs